713-333-4430What happens after people ignore Texas court orders?
Court orders issued in family law cases help resolve disagreements between spouses and structure shared parental responsibilities. Judges can issue orders related to property division, parenting time and financial support.
They can require that people split certain assets, sell property or take responsibility for specific household debts. Most people who are subject to court orders make a good faith effort to adhere to the terms established by a family law judge. However, some people lack the foresight, organizational skills or personal discipline necessary to consistently comply with court orders. In those frustrating circumstances, the other spouse or parent in the family can take action by asking the courts to address the non-compliance.
What are the potential consequences of violating a family court order in Texas?
Enforcement activities
Many court order violations specifically relate to child custody matters. One parent doesn’t give the other time with the children or fails to show up for their scheduled parenting time.
Judges can address custody order violations by ordering additional parenting time for someone denied access to their children. They can also modify custody orders in consideration of one parent’s refusal to comply.
When it comes to child support, there are many mechanisms available for enforcement. The state can intercept wages, deny people licenses or even intercept tax returns or lottery winnings. In situations involving egregious or repeat court order violations, judges might also declare the other individual in contempt of court.
Contempt of court
Violation of a court order can constitute contempt of court. The person who fails to follow the terms of a court order could be at risk of a misdemeanor criminal charge. They may even serve a sentence in state facilities. The potential penalties for contempt of court can be up to $500 in fines and as long as six months in jail for each violation.
Judges also have the authority to hold the parent in violation of the order responsible for the costs generated by their conduct. Specifically, they can make one parent responsible for paying court costs and possibly even the attorney fees of the other parent.
Those who violate family court orders are subject to numerous consequences, provided that the other party takes appropriate steps. Those dealing with non-compliant spouses or co-parents may need help addressing the situation in an effective and appropriate manner.
Attorney Kevin Hunter at Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC has experience with child custody, spousal support, high conflict divorce, and is fully equipped to guide you through the process. Learn more about Kevin on his profile here.
